Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua revealed today he was diagnosed with testicular cancer during this offseason.
“This summer, I felt a lump on one of my testicles that doctors would later diagnose as testicular cancer,” reads a statement published by the team today.
“This news was obviously scary to hear, but thankfully, doctors were able to successfully remove the tumor.”
The power forward goes on to detail how the last several weeks have been challenging. He will not be healthy enough to participate in training camp which begins on Thursday.
Joshua has asked for privacy as he continues his recovery. The full statement can be read below.
A statement from Dakota Joshua: pic.twitter.com/7kaZV7Lw1Z
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) September 17, 2024
The Michigan-native also encouraged men to get checked for testicular cancer regularly at their doctor. More than 1,000 Canadians and 10,000 Americans are diagnosed with the disease each and every year.
The 28-year-old enjoyed a breakout season last year, scoring 18 goals and adding 14 assists for 32 points in 68 games played. He became a fan-favourite with his exciting combination of size and skill.
Joshua continued his strong play into the postseason where he scored four goals and added four assists for eight points in 13 games.
His big season was rewarded with a new contract as he inked a four-year, $3.25 million per season deal in late June. He was expected to be among the most coveted free agents if he made it to July 1 unsigned.
More to come…